Ford vows to have Toronto Community Housing 'cleaned up' amid allegations of kickbacks

Rob Ford vows to have Toronto Community Housing 'cleaned up'

Mayor Rob Ford vowed to have Toronto Community Housing “cleaned up,” following allegations of kickbacks and other wrongdoing related to repair work at the public housing agency.

“I’ve heard for years there has been problems there, but it’s hard to catch these people sometimes. So, we’re on to ’em. Hopefully we catch ’em and prosecute ’em. I won’t tolerate anybody committing fraud in the city and if they do get caught, they’re found guilty in the courts, they’re done. I don’t want them back in the city.”

CEO Gene Jones announced Wednesday that TCHC had hired a firm to investigate “possible improprieties” by vendors and staff related to repair work at the agency.

“We have a pattern where we think there are maybe some kickbacks, maybe some improprieties, maybe double-billing of work, there may be shoddy work,” said Mr. Jones, who promised to go to the police if the probe uncovered criminal activity.

The mayor suggested the issues may be widespread. “I think it’s pretty deep. From the stories I’ve heard, it’s going on a long time. I think we could have a serious problem on our hands,” he said.